Richmond v Worcester Ladies Premiership, Sunday January 13th, 2013
On a very cold day the hearts of the Worcester supporters and players were doubtless warmed by this satisfying result. In a game played in the true spirit and ethos of rugby union, Worcester returned home with a very hard fought victory over formidable opposition.
Long after the game, the club house was buzzing with friendly, analytical and complimentary conversation by both sets of players, coaches, managers and supporters.
Worcester would like to express their appreciation of the strong support they received at this game and for Richmond’s hospitality.
This was certainly the clash of the Titans, with Richmond current Champions and both teams undefeated.
Richmond threw everything into attack from the kick off, but after just 4 minutes the Champions were behind as Kat Merchant made a timely intervention, then carried well before off-loading to Sarah Guest, who outstepped and outpaced the Richmond defence.
Richmond 0 Worcester 5
The passage of play that followed was fast and furious, with both teams demonstrating sublime skills and power, which provided the crowd with an excellent exhibition of Ladies Premiership Rugby.
Worcester were made to defend for long periods in the game, but always looked the better team when they did break into attack with Merchant, Watmore, Bree and Guest always prominent and back from injury Charlotte Keane constantly sniping.. However, this was far from a backs dominated game, with Pippa Crews, Courtney Gill and Heather Fisher also in devastating form.
After ten minutes Abi Chamberlain had the opportunity to reduce the deficit, but was unsuccessful with the penalty kick.
Richmond continued to press but the Worcester defence was impenetrable and the crowd were kept on their toes by the end to end action and quality of play .
Given the quality of Worcester’s overall game, it was not surprising that there lead was increased after 26 minutes, when laura Keates appeared in the centre slot to cross the line for 0 -10 lead.
Richmond fought back with some excellent attacks at the end of the half, but it was the visitors who returned to the changing rooms with the spring in their steps.
Half time: Richmond 0 Worcester 10
The second half again saw no quarter given, and Richmond’s introduction of Alice Richardson and Becky Essex, ironically both former Worcester players, provided more structure and control. However, despite Richardson’s enterprise, it was Worcester who looked the more composed outfit with a cohesive demonstration of game understanding and team play.
Good work from Rochelle Clark following a tap penalty had the Worcester backs screaming for the ball, but the forwards wanted the try and laura Keates crossed the line her brace on 56 minutes. An ankle injury to Keates during this passage of play gave Scotland prop Tracy Balmer, a return to rugby with her first appearance of the season following a serious injury.
Richmond 0 Worcester 15
Worcester now had their sights set on a winning bonus point, whilst Richmond were determined to get on the score sheet, so the game entered the final quarter with more end to end exciting rugby. Inevitably it was Worcester who capitalised with Kat Merchant sealing victory with a well worked try following good vision and kick forward from Ceri Large.
Richmond 0 Worcester 20
On the whole this was not a good day for kickers, difficult conditions and opportunities for points being on the extremities of the field, such was the quality of defences.
Worcester’s coaching team had the confidence to empty their bench in final 10 minutes and must be pleased that the balance and pattern of play remained constant.
This was a good solid all-round performance from the Worcester team. Everyone played a significant role in this victory.
This was a game of the highest quality and both teams should be commended for their standard of play. A game to really showcase Ladies Premiership Rugby.
Worcester Ladies entertain Saracens next Sunday at Weston’s Farm, (opposite Six ways) kick off 2.00pm. Support will be welcome.